EXCLUSIVE: Josh Swindell, a former professional skater who will be the central subject of an upcoming skating biopic from MindRiot Entertainment, has signed with The BKS Agency in London.
The agency will handle Swindell’s literary representation and is currently distributing Swindell’s memoirs to publishers, which form the basis for MindRiot’s biography.
Swindell was one of the most famous professional skaters of his generation and was considered the future of the sport by the likes of Christian Hosoi, Tony Hawk and Steve Caballero. He also switched to motocross and is still sponsored by Vans. However, in October 1995, Swindell was convicted of second-degree murder in the killing of Keith Ogden, whom he beat to death outside a bar in Azusa, California. He was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison and released in 2012 after spending nearly 20 years behind bars. The case has been at the center of controversy over the years. George W. Trammell, the judge who presided over the case, was later indicted and pleaded guilty to federal corruption charges.
“I am extremely honored and grateful to be working with Jason Bartholomew and the entire team at The BKS Agency,” said Swindell.
“I absolutely love that they see the unique value of my story and share my vision for helping others. I know that with The BKS Agency and MindRiot Entertainment we will reach a wide audience and hopefully show the world that every life has value and can be redeemed.”
Jason Bartholomew, co-founder of BKS, added: “It is a great honor to work with Josh. His story is dark, honest, heartbreaking and extremely inspiring. I can’t wait to match Josh with the right global publisher. His story will resonate with readers everywhere. I’m also excited to be working closely with the MindRiot Entertainment team to bring Josh’s story to life on the big screen, with Jonathan Keasey chosen as screenwriter.”
Four The Court is part of MindRiot’s upcoming projects including Safe, co-produced by E. Brian Dobbins (The blackening, black) and a project in development centered around Seattle’s underground rap scene. MindRiot also opened an Irish office last year, led by Justin MacGregor, head of film at Trinity College Dublin. MindRiot’s employees also include COO Randa Minkarah. She is the former head of business development at Fisher Communications in North America, where she led sales teams for ABC, Fox and Univision.